brio weaving loom

ANNUA
REPO T
20 0
ANNUA
REPO T
20 0
2
CON ENT
PART 1
Letter to the shareholders
P. 04
PROFILE
P. 7
Our profile - Our business - Sioen at a glance
P. 07
Our application areasP. 08
Our divisions & products
P. 09
Our brandsP. 10
Our plantsP. 11
Our business statementP. 12
Our company sloganP. 13
Our core values - Our strengths
P. 14
Our commitmentsP. 15
Our environmental policy P. 16
Our health and safety policy
P. 19
Our human resources approach
P. 20
OUR EXPERTISE
R&D AND
INNOVATION
P. 23
Our areas of expertise
P. 24
Our view on Research & development
P. 25
How we conduct R&D P. 26
Some examplesP. 28
A ‘spider web’ R&D structure
P. 30
Close collaboration with / Highlights
P. 31
State of the art equipment
P. 32
OUR
FUTURE FOCUS
P. 35
World threats & opportunities
OUR VERTICAL
INTEGRATION
P. 59
PRODUCTION STAGES & DIVISIONS
COATING DIVISION APPAREL DIVISION CHEMICALS DIVISION CORPORATE INFORMATION
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
P. 36
DEMOGRAPHYP. 38
SECURITYP. 44
CLIMATE P. 46
ENERGY P. 50
ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT
P. 54
P. 60
P. 62
P. 74
P. 80
PART 2
3
Letter to the shareholders
Dear Shareholder,
After two turbulent years, in which we fought the crisis,
using every weapon at our disposal, we delivered in 2010
on the promise we made in our 2009 letter to shareholders.
In it we wrote that “When the economy recovers, we shall
be set to advance with existing, updated and also brand
new products... “. “Doing what we say and saying what we
do”, this is what we want to communicate once again in
this annual report.
RECOVERY
2010 was the year of recovery: projects were finalized, R&D
efforts intensified, new markets explored, processes
optimized, debt reduced. Our focus was on revenue
growth and profit maximization. Both objectives have
been achieved con brio.
The Group recorded consolidated net sales of continued
activities of 292.0 million, up 15.9% on 2009, earning net
income of EUR 18.1million or 6.2% of net sales. Cash flow
increased by EUR 5.6 million to EUR 24.3 million. EBITDA
and EBIT amounted to EUR 38.4 million (13.2% of net
sales) and EUR 21.7 million (7.4% of net sales) respectively.
With these good results, Sioen Industries is able to pay
a gross dividend for 2010 of 0.25 euro per share to its
shareholders.
The Sioen Industries share price also continued its upward
momentum in 2010, rising by more than 86% on an annual
basis. Compared to 31/12/2008, the Sioen share has risen
by no less than 111%.
4
SPOTLIGHT ON OUR STRENGTHS
Sioen is a “Full Service Provider”, unique in its field anywhere
in the world, thanks to its vertical and horizontal integration.
Our capacity and flexibility are supported by efficient
production facilities. Our dedicated, solution-oriented
people with their unprecedented technical knowledge
and experience carry our product range.
Our sense of innovation translates into new products,
updated production processes and cost-effective
improvements. In this report we provide more information
about our business than ever before. About our strengths,
about how we go about our business, and also and especially
about how we see our future.
GROWTH AND PROFIT
You will not find any growth market euphoria at Sioen.
Because Sioen Industries has been a growth company in
all areas since its inception: we focus on growth and profits,
think long term and aim for leadership in all our activities.
Innovation, expertise and strategic vision guide us in living
our company slogan of
“Protection through
innovation”.
R&D is a cornerstone of our organization. It is a mentality,
an attitude shared by all our employees, at every level.
Workers, salespersons, bosses, chemists, production heads,
managers, each in our way we are working on improvement
and innovation. These constant R&D efforts provide Sioen
Industries with new products, new markets, new production
processes and new technical features.
RAW MATERIALS
Raw material prices went through the roof. On average, the
price of our raw materials rose in 2010 by 30%. We were
able to pass on a portion of these costs to our customers.
A team of people (finance, production, purchasing, R&D, ...)
works daily on cost savings plans. That too is R&D.
FOCUSED ON CORE COMPETENCES
Sioen Industries decided in 2009 to focus on its core business.
This has led us to divest the production of finished curtains
and tarpaulins, the manufacture of dashboard foils in small
volumes and the extrusion of narrow-width technical films
(the “discontinued activities” described further on in this
annual report).
FUTURE
We are optimistic on the future of Sioen Industries. Prudence
requires us more than ever to take into account the pressure
of raw material prices and of fierce competition in some lowend markets.
We are convinced that we can maintain the existing momentum.
We have great strengths that we present extensively in this
report.
We would like to thank all Sioen employees for their
dedication and hard work. Finally, we want to thank you,
our shareholders, for your continued confidence in Sioen
Industries.
Michele Sioen
CEO Sioen Industries n.v.
5
Vertica
integration
diversification
and permanent
growth
6
ROFILE
our profile
World
market
leader in
European
market
leader in
coated
textiles
technical
apparel
Sioen Industries is a diversified stock quoted group
with an extensive portfolio of products and activities:
spinning, weaving and coating, manufacturing of
clothing, production of fine chemicals and processing
of technical textiles. Vertical and horizontal integration,
diversification and permanent growth have driven us
since 1960.
our business
Founded
in 1960
Sioen Industries is:
>> The world leader in coated technical textiles
>> Strong specialisation in high end technical apparel
>> Specialist in fine chemicals
Sioen at a glance
Specialist in
fine
chemicals
>> Turnover 2010 : EUR 292 mio
>> FTEs : 4 579
>> 32 legal entities
>> In 14 countries
>> sales in 80+ countries
>> Company adagio :
PROTECTION THROUGH INNOVATION
7
Our application areas
INFLATABLE
CONTAINERS
TRUCK
TARPAULINS
AIRBAGS
BODY
GYM
MATS
ARMOUR
HIGH VISIBILITY
GEARLEVER
CLOTHING
COVERS
DASHBOARDS
DAMMING
FLOATATION
SUITS
POND
FILM
ROAD
FOIL
MOTORCYCLIST
CLOTHING
FIREMEN’S
CLOTHING
CAMPING
FORTIFICATION
YARNS MEDICAL
INFLATABLE
BOATS
TENTS
CHEMICAL
OIL
BANNERS
GOWNS
PROTECTION
DAMS
WINDBREAK
NETS
MATTRESS
WALL
COVERINGS
COVERS
8
RUBBLE NETS FOR
SCAFFOLDINGS
FILTERS HALLS
SILOS
Our divisions & products
YARNS COATING
>> 16.000 tons/year
>> Polyester high
tenacity yarn
examples:
>> Ropes & hoses
>> Conveyor
>> Geotextile
SIOEN OFFERS
PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE
CLOTHING
AGAINST
WOVEN
TECHNICAL
>> Two plants in
Belgium
>> 250 looms
>> From 150 up
to 640 cm
> 5 techniques
- Direct coating
- Transfer coating
- Online coating
- Melt coating
- Calendaring
FABRICS
examples:
>> Sail cloth
>> Filtration
>> Tea bags
APPAREL
>> Industrial protective clothing
>> Technological niche markets
>> Sports & leisure
>> hypothermia in cold water
>> UV skin damage
>> mobile phones radiation
>> blood borne pathogens (viruses,
bacteria,...)
>> rain, wind, cold
>> heat, flames and fire
>> chemicals and pesticides
>> electrical arc flash and electrostatical
discharge
>> knives, bullets, spikes and fragments
>> chainsaw and cutting injuries
TECHNICAL
TEXTILES
PASTES
>> Pastes, powders
and dispersions
for colouring
paints, clay,
concrete, chalk
and industrial
use.
TEXTILES
>> Truck transportation
>> Automotive
>> Architecture & tents
>> Pool & Pond
>> Sports
>> Sign
>> Food & Agriculture
>> Bio-energy
>> Environment protection
& waste management
>> Construction
>> Interior design
>> Army & public services
>> Breathable textiles
CHEMICALS INKS
>> Industrial inks for
colouring
wallpaper,
decorative
flooring and
Inks for wide
format digital
printing
9
Our brands
Transfer coated
products for
protective clothing,
outdoor sports
clothing,
shoe protectors,
mattress protectors,
airbags
Produces 16,000 tons of
polyester high-tenacity
1100, 550, 280 dtex
and high
tech tailor made yarns
Brand of products for
direct coating of truck
curtains, sports mats,
swimming pool covers,
tarpaulins…
Brand name of films
and sheets we make
for the automotive
industry:
dashboards, sun visors,
gear protection, trunk
curtains
The brand name for
washable wallcovers
for schools, hospitals,
airports,
hotels and other public
buildings
Production of open
structure technical
textiles (mesh)
Production of technical
protective clothing.
Protection against rain,
wind, cold, heat, flames,
electrical arc flashes, …
Fire fighters clothing
protecting against heat,
flames and fire
a technical fabric with
polyurethane coating on
a stretchable knitted base.
Water and Windproof,
comfortable, noiseless,
150% stretchable, supple,
highly tear resistant, and
machine washable.
Flexible photovoltaic laminates
on SioenTechnical Textiles.
A new and revolutionary way of
gathering power can be
integrated in tents, tensile
constructions, rooftops, …
Integration of light into
coated fabrics
Production of felt and
filters for the food and
building industry,
geotextiles, automotive,
advertising and
packaging, water
purification
Weaving of fabrics for
own use and technical
fabrics for external
customers
(sail cloth, filtration,
tea bag, airbag)
Produces TPO and PVC
films with rollers in
order to achieve the
required motif/texture.
Cutting, welding,
punching,
lasercutting and
production of pond
liners a.o.
Brand of inks (for digital
printing)
Production of tents,
covering systems, silos
and compartments
Modern, comfortable
and functional leisure
and sportswear
Reusable drapes and
gowns for medical
applications
Produces pastes, inks,
varnishes and colour
dispersions
Protective clothing
against chainsaw and
cutting injuries
Body armour
protecting against
knives, bullets, spikes
and fragments.
For security, emergency
services, prisons, train
and bus personnel
Anti graffiti spray
Brand of underwear
and T-shirts
Floatation and
buoyancy suits
Our plants
1
7
6
1 ARDOOIE
Sioen NV / Veranneman TT /
Sioen Industries
2 BORNEM
European Masterbatch (EMB)
3 KERKSKEN
Sioen Industries - weaving
4 LIEGE
Sioen Felt & Filtration
5 MESLIN - L’EVÊQUE
Inducolor
6 MOUSCRON
Sioen Industries - spinning/weaving
Sioen Fabrics - coating and
calendaring
7 POPERINGE
Coatex
2
3
4
5
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Sioen Shanghai - CHINA - SHANGHAI
Saint Frères - Enduction & Confection - FRANCE - FLIXECOURT
Richard Colorants - FRANCE - LOMME
Sioen France - FRANCE - NARBONNE
P.T. Sungintex - INDONESIA - BEKASI BARAT MARUNDA
P.T. Sioen Indonesia - INDONESIA - JAKARTA
Donegal Protective Clothing - IRELAND - DONEGAL
Siofab - PORTUGAL - SANTO TIRSO
Sioen Tunisie - CTS - Sioen Zaghouan - TUNISIA - TUNIS
Mullion Manufacturing Ltd. - UK - SCUNTHORPE
Roland Group America Inc -Texas -USA
18
14
17
8
10
9
12
13
11
15
16
Our business statement
We will continuously optimise the conversion of
>> chemicals
>> customised technical fabrics
>> foil sheets through our unique and cost effective vertically integrated process capabilities, up to and
including
>> technical apparel
We will focus on global B-to-B customers and professional users in order to assure continuity, riskspreading and profitable growth for all our stakeholders. We will do the above in a dynamic environment,
through flexible and quick response to the market, focussed R&D efforts and a global sales and
production presence.
In addition, we will develop environmental friendly coating and converting technologies to set a winning
standard for primarily green safety and protective products to create sustainable profitable growth.
12
Our company slogan
'Protection through innovation'
'We will develop environmentally friendly
coating and converting technologies to set
a winning standard for primarily green
safety and protective products.'
13
Our core values
All Sioen companies have as their core values
integrity, fairness, honesty and respect in all
aspects of their business. Sioen Industries expects
the same from all its stakeholders.
Our strengths
>> Vertical integration, making us independent of
outside suppliers, giving us a major technical
advantage and better R&D.
>> R&D
>> Technical expertise. Sioen products dominate
where technical specifications are decisive.
>> Cost efficiency (production)
>> A ‘hands-on’, Non-bureaucratic corporate
culture.
14
Corporate
Social
Responsibility
Our commitments
Commitment to our customers
Customer =
Key driver
We have to provide our customers with high
quality products and services at competitive
prices.We have to meet our customers’ demands
and win and maintain customers’ trust.
Commitment to our employees
We have to offer our employees an attractive
working environment where there is room for
personal development, creativity, responsibility,
and career opportunities.
Commitment to the
company’s shareholders
We have to protect their investment and every
year provide them with an acceptable return.
Commitment to
our business partners
We have to build partnerships and mutual
beneficial relationships with our suppliers and
contractors.
Commitment to society
Sioen companies work in a wide variety of
changing social, political and economical
environments. We have to do business by
observing the laws, supporting human rights,
respecting the environment and by creating
additional jobs.
15
Our environmental policy
Environment
As a responsible corporate citizen, the group complies with all
legal requirements. As a market leader it also seeks to operate
a proactive environmental policy, investing every year to
protect people, nature and the environment, applying stricter
standards than those required by law. For Sioen, care for the
environment is a constant concern.
Recycling
In our business statement we say: “We will develop
environmental friendly coating and converting technologies
to set a winning standard for primarily green safety and
protective products to create sustainable profitable
growth. ”Therefore, in addition to developing new products,
technologies and processes, the R&D team is also intensively
engaged in researching and developing recycling options.
Possibilities include the recycling of used technical textiles in
bags, insulation materials, mud flaps and so on.
Environment-friendly production and
energy recovery
The group is making increasing use of recycling and
energy recovery technologies.
Coating sites are
fitted with distillation and combustion towers, which
minimize exhausts and recover hot air which can be
used to pre-heat ovens. At Ardooie, contaminated
solvents from cleaning are distilled for re-use and we use heat
exchangers.
Electricity generation
All buildings at our headquarters at Ardooie are fitted with
electricity generating solar panels and equipped the factories
at Poperinge and Bornem (B).
16
People,
Planet,
Profit
17
Safety is a core value
and safe behaviour
is encouraged and
respected
18
Our health and safety policy
All our companies have a sustainable approach to health
and safety. To this end, Sioen companies manage these
matters as a critical business activity. Safety is a core value
and safe behaviour is encouraged and respected in all Sioen
companies.
Our goals are:
>> To eliminate work-related injury and illness.
>> To provide work environments that do not compromise the
health or safety of each individual.
>> To ensure that this policy is applied throughout the whole
organisation.
19
Our human resources
approach
The human capital at Sioen Industries is an important link in
the expansion of the company. Our employees ensure that
promises are kept and that our products and services meet
customers’ expectations and demands.
Through many years of dedication, our employees have built
up a huge fund of skills. They put their heart and soul into their
work, constantly offering creative solutions and alternatives.
OPEN COMMUNICATION
Sioen is creating a stimulating working climate in which those
who want can develop their capacities to the full.
Sioen has always practiced open communication. This
keeps us in tune with people’s wishes, aspirations and
needs. Vacancies are filled internally wherever possible.
Employees are encouraged to train further.
Through our various works councils we try to communicate
openly and in a spirit of confidence with personnel
representatives. Consultation meetings and additional
discussions are held when major topics come up.
Our level company structure makes it easier to listen to people,
and we quickly hear new ideas, initiatives or grievances.
20
Personnel per country 2010
Total: 4 579
personnel per division 2010
3000
2571
1%
19%
chemicals
2500
coating
2000
3%
1500
GROUP
685
835
1000
Apparel
77%
1
Ukraine
UK
Tunisia
20
27
170
Poland
Portugal
Netherlands
38
Indonesia
France
Ireland
16
7
Germany
China
Belgium
0
12
197
500
'Sioen creates a stimulating
working climate where can develop
their skills and capacities'
21
Knowledge is our
fundamental principle
and our real capital.
22
OUR EXPERT SE
R&D AND I NOVATION
Innovation starts from a constant desire to be out front,
exploring new territories, striking out in new directions.
It is spurred on by competition: if we don’t innovate,
others will. It requires us to be entrepreneurial and
take calculated risks. ‘Protection through Innovation’ is
Sioen’s corporate slogan. Innovation keeps us ahead of
the market with new products, processes markets and
applications based on our core expertise.
23
Our areas of expertise
R&D
We must excel at R&D collaboration across the entire organisation in
order to benefit from and optimise our knowledge /expertise and to
develop new profitable growth products/solutions and process cost
savings.
Product(ion) engineering
We must excel at continuous improvement of our production
processes and know-how to keep and make them state-of-the-art,
cost effective and flexible and to achieve the right quality
requirements.
Market intelligence
We must excel at detecting and understanding current and future
market needs in order to develop customised solutions and bring
them timely (faster than competition) to the market.
Global growth co-ordination
We must excel at integrating and coordinating our sales force and
production investments in order to maximise their effectiveness for
the group and to avoid wasted resources.
24
Our view on
Research & Development
Sioen has a concerted focus on knowledge, innovation and creativity: on new
materials, new production processes, new services, new niches, new markets and
new requirements. Knowledge is our fundamental principle and our real capital.
The products we develop must both meet customer expectations and
create added value for the business. Process optimization made possible by
technological innovation is making a substantial contribution to the group’s
effectiveness.
We have
to conduct
business
responsibly
25
How we conduct R&D
We are very much aware that tomorrow’s profit depends to a large extent on today’s research and
development.
R&D has always taken central stage since the beginning of Sioen Industries in 1960. Taking on challenges,
striking new paths, investing in innovating machines, stimulating creativity, searching for alternatives,
wondering about the world… R&D was and still is one of our major assets.
26
Applied research
Product Research
At Sioen we try to solve
practical problems of the
modern world by indicating
where these needs are.
In chapter “Our future focus”
(page 35), you can read our
analysis of the future trends
and the answers we have as a
company. The research is
focused on the
socio-economical and
demographic evolutions in
society. Our objective is a
sustainable development in
emerging technologies &
markets.
We continuously search for
new products that meet the
requirements of both current
as well as prospective
customers.
We emphasize the
development of new and
different products and new
applications for present
products.
Market Research
Operations Research
The collection and analysis
of data about our target
markets and competition
enables us to be ahead of
competitors. Knowledge is
power and understanding is
an advantage.
Our dedicated sales and
marketing team monitors
customers, trends and
markets through
quantitive and qualitative
information.
This represents the study of
optimal resource allocation.
We want to provide rational
bases for decision making
by seeking to understand and
structure complex situations,
and to utilize this understanding
to predict system behaviour and
improve system performance.
Streamlining people, machines,
and procedures is the
challenge.
Manufacturing
Research
Technology & equipment have
always taken central stage at
Sioen Industries.
We always wanted
to be better, faster, leaner and
more cost effective. Therefore
we direct research efforts
towards development of tools
and equipment, handling
devices, and methods of
manufacture which can result
in costs savings and increased
productivity.
Development
Materials Research
With raw materials prices
rising to unseen heights, the
search for alternatives is more
urgent than ever.
The discovery of new materials
has impact on both
manufacture and product
research. Innovative
ingredients or intelligent
combination of high tech
materials enable us to create
new products and develop
new markets.
Materials research has
introduced new materials into
our products such as
conductive polymer,
thermochrome pigments,
controlled biodegradable
additives etc.
In this final stage of R&D,
we develop products before
going into full scale
production.
The development team
which is interdisciplinary
finds viable ways of
implementation.
Development is the bridge
between research work and
the market.
Innovation pushes us forward
27
Some examples
PHTHALATE FREE
te
Phthala
free es
n
membra
ANTISKID LATEX
SIOEN AT THE
OLYMPIC GAMES
2012
In that same market,
we’ve developed a special
anti-skid latex fabric
that is used for the
backing of all kinds
of sports and play mats. NEW LINE IN
MOUSCRON
Since August the new
2m20 print-and-varnish
line in Mouscron (B) is
operational. With
this multi functional
machine we can print,
Sioen developed sports
mats, bouncing castles
and jumping pillows with
a brand new range of
phthalate free
membranes. Phthalates
are a family of industrial
Our French customer will
produce a major part
of all the sports mats
for the next Olympic
chemicals that are
generally used as solvents.
The Sioen phthalate free
range is child proof and
environmental friendly.
No better membrane to
produce sports mats,
jumping pillows and
playgrounds.
Games in
London. We produce
a range of technical
textiles for tatamis,
anti-skid mats, and mats
for high jump,
gymnastics and other
sports mats.
varnish and emboss films
for instance for wall
coverings and ceiling
tiles.
We can also laminate two
films or a film on
another carrier.
ART WITH SIOEN
Technical textiles do not always have to be functional.
One of our PVC coated textiles has been used in
Germany as decoration material for a club. White B8000
flat tarpaulin as decorative high grass coloured with
LED lights makes the building stand out. Cool isn’t it?
The material that is used
> Weighs 630 grams per square metre
> Is easily weldable
> Or can be stitched together
> Is resistant to very high as well as very low
temperatures
> Is strong and durable
This makes it very suitable for outdoor applications and
various forms.
For indoor applications on large surfaces we have
flame retardant alternatives:
B8000 flat tarpaulin – colour 9002 White
28
ANTI GRAFFITI & DIRT STOP
We present you SIOEN GRAFFITI STOP, an
anti-graffiti coating that prevents graffiti paints
from sticking on pvc surfaces.
Cleaning graffiti off buildings, statues, trailers, tents and
other surfaces costs billions of euros/ dollars annually.
Many cities have started anti-graffiti programs but
vandalism is still a major problem.
We have succeeded in developing a coating to prevent
taggers from vandalizing public and private properties.
It is a clear coat sprayed on top of the existing paint or
surface.
The sioen
anti-graffiti
lacquer was
initially created
for the
protection of
truck side curtains
and tarpaulins.
Sioen CHEMICALS
HAS NOW developed
an anti-graffiti
lacquer
that is suitable for
metal, bricks, tiles,
concrete, wood
and PVC.
YARNS - GEOTEXTILE
High tenacity, high
modulus and low creep
properties are typical for
geo-textile yarns, being
applied in geotextile
fabrics keeping soil and
rock in place.
SEED
With our “aquacolours”,
water based pigment
dispersions, we colour seeds.
Each seed has its specific
colour an can thus be
recognized. Each colour
represents a specific biocide,
for instance herbicides.
The geotextile market
was first explored in
early 2008 …meanwhile
SIOFIL yarns have
become a point of
reference with all main
European geo-textile
producers (world market
$ 4 billion - 5% growth/a).
Meat casings
Through Richard
Colorants, we are present
in your daily life again.
We produce colourants
for casings of hot dogs
& sausages, lunch meats,
hams and other
processed meat and
poultry products.
These casings are made of
natural cellulose as a raw
material. In most of the
cases they are peeled off
before packaging and the
casing does not arrive to
the consumer. But in some
places the sausages
are sold also with the
casing.
29
A ‘spider web’ R&D structure
Keeping ahead of the market requires ongoing investment in research and development. At the group’s
central R&D centre at its headquarters in Ardooie, professionals work on product development and
innovation and on process improvement with state-of-the-art facilities. 51 people are involved in R&D
and testing. Innovation is a state of mind in all departments of the group: production, sales, marketing,
R&D, quality, management,...
Direct expenditure on R&D and testing amounted in 2010 to EUR 5,8 million (=2.0% of turnover), related
to continuing operations, including production time and related costs.
As well as its central R&D unit, Sioen has other research teams at major production sites, conducting
specific research and product testing in more restricted areas. Work done at the production sites is
coordinated and managed from the central R&D unit in Ardooie.
Sioen’s R&D team cooperates closely with national and international research institutions, universities
and scientific institutes in Belgium and abroad.
30
Close collaboration with:
Highlights
> CUSTOMERS AND SUPPLIERS
In 2010 Sioen participated in 9 EU
funding projects of which we initiated 3:
> Universities and institutions
Universiteit Gent, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, ifth activateur de
projets, Cranfield university, ITV Denkendorf, FhG, Centexbel, ...
> Branch associations
Creamoda Belgian fashion, IWT, Synamap, Febelsafe, Bsif,
Confidence in textiles, ...
>
Advanced textiles for open sea biomass
cultivation
> TEXOTREME
Advanced textile solutions for pollution
recovery from oil spills
> FUWATIN:
Water from air humidity
All three pre proposals were accepted as
full proposal and will be implemented as
from April 2011.
31
State of the art equipment
> Test for limited
flame spread
> Test for
convective heat
This test simulates
the fire fighter being
entrapped by flames;
he must fight his
way through the
flames.
A horizontal flame of
25 mm is pointed
on a vertical fabric
for 10 seconds.
> CLIMA ROOM
(HYDROLISIS TEST)
> RAIN TOWER
> Test FOR exposure
to heat radiation
The fabrics of the suit
are exposed to intense
radiant heat
32
> Chainsaw test
>BREATHABILITY
TEST
> Xenon testing
> TENSILE STRENGTH/
SEAM STRENGTH
Top f light testing facilities
Central R&D lab in Ardooie and top flight testing facilities in all productions sites
33
We look, to see.
We listen, to hear.
We experience, to feel.
As people and as a company
we are constantly moving.
34
O R FU URE FOCUS
Our future product offering
We will focus on:
>> customised products
>> high end, specialised products
>> recyclable/recycled products
>> integrated features
>> intelligent textiles
Our customer/end-user profiles
We will focus on:
>> partnerships & open innovation
>> new sales channels
>> niche specialists in technical markets
>> government authority
Taking this as our starting point, we wondered how
the world, human beings, and our business are set to
evolve. In the short, medium and long term. You will
find the conclusions in this annual report. From the
many active brainstorming and business meetings
held at all levels of the company we have selected five
major findings.
The first is demographic evolution, the second the
growing need for safety and protection, the third is
climate, the fourth is energy provision and the fifth
and last is a growing consciousness of ecological
imperatives. Each of these findings, what they mean
and how they impact our company and our products,
we examine closely in this chapter.
35
World threats & opportunities
Demography
GROWING AND AGEING
POPULATION
Safety
Climate
INCREASED SAFETY
NEEDS FOR PEOPLE &
BELONGINGS
CHANGING EXTREME
CIRCUMSTANCES:
DRAUGHTS, FIRES, STORMS,
HEAT, FLOODS, COLD, ...
NEED FOR
INFRASTRUCTURE,
DRINKABLE WATER, ...
How
does
react?
AT SIOEN
AT SIOEN
AT SIOEN
>> Truck: lighter, safer,
more ecological with
integrated features
>> Clothing:
-- NRBC
-- Riot suits
-- Body armours
-- Camouflage
>> Protective clothing :
-- Fire fighters clothing
-- Immersion suits
>> Textile architecture:
durable, safe, integrated
features
>> Construction:
-- Felt & filtration for
thermal & acoustic
insulation
-- Reinforcement,
scaffolding nets,...
>> Health
-- reusable drapes &
gowns
>> Food
-- Food quality coated
fabrics
-- Food quality protective
clothing.
-- Extreme cold &
pesticide protection
36
Sioen
>> Carapax
roof reinforcement
>> Siosteel security system
>> Watertanks
>> Oilbooms
>> Geotextiles
Energy
SEARCH & NEED FOR
RENEWABLE AND
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
Ecological
Footprint
RISING ECOLOGICAL
AWARENESS
SUN, WIND, BIO-WATER
AT SIOEN
AT SIOEN
>> Technical textiles for :
-- biogas containers
-- wind mills
-- with integrated
solarcells
-- bio & fog harvesting
>> Ecological products
-- Waste problem, recycling
(use of recycled and
recyclable materials in
apparel)
-- Increasingly stringent legislation on toxic
elements and emission
-- Growing ecological
awareness
> Technical apparel
-- flame retardant,
antistatic, ATEX
protection.
>> Ecological products
-- Phthalate free
-- Biodegradable
-- REACH compliant
-- Plasticizer free PVC
-- Recycling
-- Garments made from
recycled materials
-- Recyclable textiles
resulting in an almost
“cradle to cradle”
solution
-- Reusable garments vs.
single use garments.
WASTE FREE COMPANY
PROTECTION
Stands for the
products we produce.
THROUGH
Stands for our
production
facilities, capacity,
f lexibility, service
and expertise.
INNOVATION
Stands for R&D.
Our guarantee
for future growth.
37
DEMOGRAPH
Many studies show that the population of our world
will continue to increase. At the same time the life
expectation of every citizen is rising. More and more
people are living longer. Obviously this calls for
appropriate infrastructures, with different medical
requirements, and greater need for transport, food and
drinking water.
38
All this translates at Sioen into products for
infrastructure, transport and storage
We will continue our focus on developing and producing technical textiles for tents, structures,
roofs, buildings, trucks, railway wagons, trailers and guardrails. For water storage and transport
(water tanks), water basins, covers and technical reinforcement textiles for dykes and dams.
We will produce corporate identity apparel and technical protective clothing for agriculture &
horticulture, the medical world and the food industry.
39
Transport: Creating added value
The transport sector is traditionally one of Sioen Industries’ major markets. Our current range consists
of technical textiles for trailer and wagon curtains and tarpaulins, and protective clothing for, amongst
others, major transport companies. We wish to strengthen and further extend our global leadership
position here.
We do this by developing, producing and marketing high added value products (for our customers and
ourselves).
The themes of the future in the transport sector are:
>> lightweight
>> safety
>> environmentally friendly
We are aligning our R&D fully on these three themes. We are working on intelligent integrated anti-theft
systems for truck and trailer curtains in general. We are developing anti-vandalism solutions for trailer
and truck curtains and roofs. We are also developing systems for keeping truck roofs ice-free. We are
improving truck roof reinforcement materials. Load security also plays a very important role, calling for
roof and curtain strengthening systems and inherent load security solutions.
40
Construction: Creating added value
>> Noise Insulation.
>> Thermal insulation using advanced sandwich panels having a heat transfer
resistance 6x better than traditional mineral wool.
>> Aesthetic sound and thermal insulating lightweight roofs. >> In addition, we refine our products for roofing, for reinforcing plasterboard
panels and other separation materials, for wall covering and insulation.
Construction: Creating added value
For the past several years a (r)evolution has been taking place in the traditional
building sector. Old materials are making way for new, lighter and yet solid
alternatives. Under the heading ‘Textile Architecture’ we already produce
technical textiles for tents, tension structures and semi-permanent buildings and
enclosures. Here too we are a major global player.
By giving our products a new impetus and by integrating various functions, we
want to further expand our market position and grow into a leading manufacturer
of technical textiles for textile architecture.
The themes of the future in coated materials for the building sector are:
>> durability
>> safety
>> energy-friendliness
Again we are aligning our R&D effort fully on these three themes. We are working
on integrated solar cells for electricity generation (e.g. marquees, first aid stations,
field hospitals). We are developing technical textiles that are dirt-repellent and
self-cleaning. We are integrating anti-intrusion systems into technical textiles for
tents and tension structures.
41
Health: Creating added value
HEALTH PROTECTION WITH REUSABLE DRAPES AND GOWNS
Today we manufacture products for the medical world in the form of reusable aprons and sheets for
operating rooms. Our range also includes technical textiles for mattress covers and protective clothing.
Through research and development we want to launch new products with integrated functions such as
discoloration at high temperatures.
42
>> Bravo excell high durability high resistant mattress covers
>> Halogen free flame retardant mattress covers
>> Ag-based antimicrobial drapes & covers.
Food: Creating added value
FOOD STORAGE:
>> Food quality coated fabrics
>> Food quality protective clothing
>> Nicewear > Extreme cold protection
>> Agricultural: pesticide spray protection
As we have already written in the introduction: the need for
food will increase For this reason we are developing technical
textiles for the storage and transport of food (flexitanks).
For food production, we are also developing technical textiles
with high added value: for protecting agricultural machinery,
drainage and breeding nets, seed basins, windbreak nets for
stabling,… All this is part of the group’s (present and future)
product range. Again, our focus is on integrated features and
products with high added value.
43
SECUR TY
INCREASING SAFETY NEEDS
>> protecting people
>> protecting property
It is clear that security is playing a major part in our
society. People want to secure and protect themselves
and their property. The concept of security is both
rational and in the mind. In both cases, protection is
necessary.
Protection, shelter, security, safekeeping, safeguarding, ...
lots of words define this need.
44
All this translates at Sioen into intelligent
solutions for safety and protection
It’s no coincidence that our company slogan is ‘protection through innovation’. We already produce
countless products that guarantee safety. But here too we want to go a step further. Developing high
tech CBRN protective clothing.
Protecting people against violence and
aggression: Creating added value
We use our knowledge and expertise to continually develop new products. Having our own test labs,
ballistic laboratory and research centres (see description on p. 22-33 of this report) allows us to quickly
and adequately respond to the needs of the market.
The themes of the future here are:
>> CBRN protection
>> riot suits and body armour
>> camouflage
45
CLI ATE
CLIMATE
Scientific reports confirm that our climate is
changing. Both rapidly and strongly. Global warming
is a fact. Glaciers are melting. The winter snow cover
in the northern hemisphere is reducing. The drifting
pack ice around the North Pole is getting thinner and
retreating. The top layer of permafrost in Canada and
Russia is getting ever warmer.
The oceans are heating up, to greater and greater
depths. Water as it heats expands and rises. Together
with the supply of meltwater from glaciers this is
leading to steadily rising sea levels. Other climate
phenomena are periods of drought, our exploding
number of tropical cyclones, tsunamis, floods, and
forest fires.
46
This translates at Sioen into Products that
protect against weather, wind and disasters
We are committed to researching and developing products that guard against sun, floods, hurricanes,
wind and rain, as well as protective clothing that protects the wearer in extreme (weather)
conditions.
We are also developing in our chemicals division pigments and pastes for technical textiles that speed
up or slow down the absorption of sunlight.
47
Sun, water, wind: Creating added value
PROTECTION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE & DISASTERS
>> hurricane shelters,
>> sun: sun shades/ UV protective clothing
>> water: dams, irrigation pipes, water collection
>> geogrids
>> rapid deployment tents
We can use technical textiles to protect ourselves against nature, but also to harness it. In the first case, we
develop and manufacture technical textiles for tension structures, water basins, irrigation pipes, water
collection and geogrids for reinforcing dams and embankments. Where we want to use the elements
for the benefit of man, we develop technical textiles for windmill sails, for gathering water vapour and
converting it into water, for collecting sunlight and converting it into solar energy.
Again and again this involves highly technical, high added value products. Our research and
development team consists of specialists in this field. Feasibility studies are at the basis of each product
in development.
48
Protective clothing: Creating added value
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING FOR (EXTREME) CIRCUMSTANCES
>> Immersion suits
>> Fire fighters clothing
For nearly half a century we have focused on the production of protective clothing.
The knowledge and expertise we have built up we can now use
to develop protective clothing to safeguard the wearer
in extreme conditions. Firefighting apparel, flotation suits,
survival suits, polo’s and t-shirts that protect against
UV light, protective suits with antibacterial properties.
Our existing range expands every year and
our products are becoming
increasingly technical.
49
ENE GY
ENERGY
>> alternative energy sources
>> renewable and sustainable
SUN The sun is the basis of every green energy source
we know: the sun makes the wind blow, makes plants
and trees grow, keeps the water cycle moving for
hydropower, warms the soil, air and water. Photovoltaic
panels convert light into electricity.
WIND Wind energy is the electrical energy that a wind
turbine can generate from wind. The current generation
of 3M Watt installations reach a height of around 120m,
with 68m blades. Wind turbine towers are getting
higher, because wind speed increases with height.
50
BIO Plants and trees are a kind of natural battery that
stores solar energy. This they release in particular in
the form of heat, when burned, fermented or gassed.
Biomass also exists in other forms: biogas, green waste,
wood waste, animal waste, manure, sludge ... There is a
constant renewed supply and for this reason we speak
of a renewable energy source.
WATER Hydropower is the electrical energy that a
turbine can produce from flowing or falling water. In a
hydroelectric generating station water is used to turn a
turbine. Along with an adequate water supply, a certain
drop is necessary to turn the turbines of a hydropower
plant. (source: VEA)
This translates at Sioen into
products for green energy generation
Sioen is already producing technical textiles for the generation of green energy: biogas container covers
and reinforcement textile for windmills.
Each wind turbine uses 1500m² of cloth. Coated fabrics have many functions here, for reusable
packaging, air filtration and huge ventilation hoses for air cooling the transformers and rectifiers inside
the windmill.
The apparel division manufactures protective clothing for those working in and around power stations,
or in explosion risk environments.
This fast-growing market is one of our top priorities. We want to quickly and efficiently develop new
products that will further strengthen our position here.
51
Biogas, wind, sun: Creating added value
Producing green energy is a global priority. At Sioen too. The single most important theme in our existing market (technical
textiles for biogas containers and wind turbines) is sustainability. Again our R&D efforts are fully aligned on these goals.
How do we make the technical textiles for this application stronger, lighter and longer-lasting? These are the questions our
experts are examining.
We are already marketing integrated solar cells on technical textiles under the Siosolar brand. This technical product can be
used on tents or trailers.
We are also developing a number of completely new products such as technical textiles for bio and fog harvesting. The newest
developments in bioharvesting are integrating manure control in development or catastrophes areas in combination with
direct bioenergy production. Intelligent application of the high potentials of technical textiles with our engineering also
leads to totally innovative products in biofuel generation. Possibilities as the unique application of phosphor in biomers
generation resulting both in bioenergy but also valuable chemistry niches, drugs or food additives, medicines.
The unique application of offshore bio generation in both bioenergy and in drugs or food additives.
52
Protective clothing: Creating added value
We are producing technical protective clothing for people who come into contact with electricity in any way. Flame retardant
and antistatic trousers and jackets and clothing that protects the wearer against electric arcs are part of our range. We will
also be focusing on clothing for explosive atmospheres.
53
ECOLOGICAL
FOOTPRIN
ECOLOGICAL AWARENESS/ ECO FOOTPRINT
>> Waste problem, recycling (use of recycled and recyclable materials in apparel)
>> More stringent legislation on toxic elements
and emission
>> Growing ecological awareness
The ecological footprint is the earth surface needed
to meet the lifestyle requirements of a person, city,
company or country. It shows how much land area is
needed for everything we produce and for the waste
we leave behind or process.
Under this common denominator falls people’s
increasing environmental consciousness. Respect for
the environment is becoming increasingly part of our
everyday life.
54
This translates at Sioen into ecological products
and production
We are not only producing ecologically sound products, but are doing so in an environmentally responsible
manner. In concrete terms this means that we make products that are biodegradable, contain no phthalates, and
are manufactured with recycled materials. It also includes environmentally friendly production processes in which
we reduce waste and emissions to a minimum.
Is PVC sustainable yes or no. The answer is of course! It only uses for 50% organic based resources. The impact
on greenhouse emissions is only half of that of conventional polymers, and if the plasticizer is biobased, and the
polymer is recyclable, what could discourage the future of this unique polymer system?
Ecological products and production
>> Phthalate free
>> Biodegradable
>> REACH compliant
>> Plasticizer free PVC
>> Recycling
>> Garments made from recycled materials
>> Recyclable textiles resulting in an almost “cradle to cradle” solution
>> Reusable garments vs. single use garments.
55
Ecological products
ECOLOGICAL CHEMICALS
>> Phthalate free pigments and pastes
>> Clean inks
>> Heavy metal free products
>> REACH compliant and beyond
>> NF certified
We produce environmentally friendly products such as biodegradable technical textiles, fleeces from recycled polyester
and phthalate-free technical textiles for all possible applications. Our range of protective clothing consists solely of reusable
clothing, unlike the many disposable items found in the same fields (medical textiles, cleaning overalls, etc.)
56
Ecological production
WASTE FREE COMPANY
>> Pro-active environmental policy
>> Annual investments in green energy, recycling and
energy savings
Ecological and sustainable production means for us striving
for a waste-free company. We are conducting here a proactive
environmental policy and invest annually in green energy (our
factory buildings are equipped with solar panels), in recycling
and energy conservation. We reuse a lot of raw materials in
a continuous production process and are careful to keep
emissions to a minimum, going well beyond the minimal legal
requirements.
Maximum reuse
or recycling of
waste
57
From raw material to
distribution.
Vertical integration:
a strong model.
58
OUR VERTICA
I TEGRATION
Since the start of Sioen Industries, we have included
more and more new stages into our business process.
Both forward and backward integration. Our primary
business consisted in 1960 of the production of
technical textiles (coating). We reinforced our vertical
integration by spinning, weaving and producing
pigment ourselves, manufacturing apparel and
undertaking all kinds of cutting-assembly work.
Cost advantages, supplier independence, profit
maximization. Undertaking as many production phases
as possible in house offers many advantages.
Initially, all the add-on activities served our primary
production process. Meanwhile, they have all become
dynamic, independent business units with strong and
growing external sales.
59
PRODUCTION
STAGES & DIV SIONS
As a fully integrated group, Sioen covers every stage of
the production and conversion of coated textiles, from
spinning to weaving to coating and on to specialist
processing.
This includes all five main coating processes, each with
its own applications and markets.
60
FINISHING
COATING STAGE
BASE
MATERIAL
1.Spinning of
polyester
high-tenacity yarns
YARN
2.Weaving of the
yarn into various
base textiles
FABRIC
3.Preparation of
colourings
(pigment pastes,
varnishes, inks
and dyes) = Sioen
Chemicals
PASTE
4.Application of
coatings, using
five different
technologies
(direct coating,
transfer coating,
online coating,
melt coating,
calendaring)
5.Coated fabrics sold
as semi-finished
products to
external
manufacturers
6.Apparel Division Production of
protective
clothing for
professional and
leisure use
61
COATING D VISION
Coating is the treatment of material in which a layer
is laid on top of a carrier. The Coating Division is the
world leader in the integrated coating of synthetic
fabrics. We cover a carrier with a protective layer like
PVC, polyurethane, silicone or other plastic.
This is to make the fabric waterproof, fire resistant,
antistatic, breathable, printable, ... and to provide
protection against wind, water, cold and chemicals.
Sioen covers the entire production process from the
yarn and the pigment paste through to the coating
and processing of technical textiles:
>> the coating layer or protective layer consists
of polymers in solid or liquid form. In Sioen
Chemicals we produce all our own pastes,
varnishes and inks.
>> the carrier: a woven knitted fabric or a nonwoven. We operate one spinning and three
weaving mills.
>> the coating technology: consists of the
complete production process for covering the
carrier with a coating layer. Sioen specializes in 5
coating techniques.
62
Spinning
Sioen has one of the most modern spinning mills in the world (Mouscron - Belgium), where every
year approx. 16,000 tons of polyester granules are processed into high tenacity yarns. A portion of the
yarns is twisted in the twisting plant; the rest goes directly to our weaving mills. In addition, we spin an
increasing number of custom made yarns for external customers. High tenacity, high modulus and low
creep properties are typical for geo-textile yarns, being applied in geotextile fabrics keeping soil and
rock in place. The geotextile market was first developed in early 2008. Meanwhile SIOFIL yarns have
become a point of reference within all main European geotextile producers.
We are continuously investing in production technology, putting us among the leaders in the market for
polyester yarns. Our market approach, with specialized standard products, and our reliable delivery and
quality ensure that we stay ahead of our competitors.
CONVEYOR
Adhesive Active Finish
enhances rubber
adhesion properties.
GEOTEXTILE
High tenacity, high
modulus and low
creep properties
keeping soil and rock
in their place.
COATED FABRICS
High Tenacity, High
Shrinkage (e.g. sailcloth) and
Low Shrinkage (e.g. tarps)
maximising fabric width and
flatness after coating.
NARROW FABRICS
Slings,wraps,… good tensile
strength with variety of
elongations.
OFFSHORE MOORING
Marine finish application.
High strength to weight ratios.
Abrasion resistance to increase
durability and life expectancy.
ROPES & HOSES
Adhesive Active Finish enhances
rubber adhesion properties.
High strength to weight ratios.
63
Weaving
Sioen Weaving specializes in the production and sale of high-quality industrial fabrics and enjoys a high
reputation in almost all segments of the technical textile industry. Sioen Weaving looks back on a long
weaving tradition which goes back to the end of the 19th century. Its knowhow is being enlarged with
the expertise and supply of High Tenacity Yarn from Sioen Fibres Spinning and downstream knowledge
in coating and other conversion processes. Innovation, quality and logistics reliability form the basis for
our long-term relationships and high estimated position in the market.
TECHNOLOGY
Sioen Weaving has two production plants equipped with own beaming, weaving, senging and hightech inspection equipment. Special looms of all technological standards are atour disposal for the
manufacture of light-weight to heavy fabrics uptill 4 meters of width. A network of carefully selected
subcontractors for specific and specialized finishes on yarn and fabrics has been built-up through the
years.
Sioen Weaving is capable of converting a wide range of raw materials such as polyester, polyamide,
para-aramide, meta-aramide, polypropylene, polyethylene, nomex, and others…
Monofilaments, multi-filaments as well as spun fibres and adhesion activated yarns can be applied in
counts from 20dTex till 6600dTex, twisted or untwisted.
Sioen Weaving possesses a dedicated laboratory where yarn as well as fabric specifications can be
measured and data can be stored.
64
MARKET SEGMENTS
AUTOMOTIVE
All our automotive fabrics
meet the exact standards of
original equipment manufacturers
and are being tested in our
own lab. Through the years
our organization has built a
reputation of being a consistent
supplier on quality, reliability and
flexibility within the automotive
market.
FILTRATION
Sioen Weaving takes a leading role
in filtration fabrics for the food
industry, heavy duty industry and
chemical industry making use of
a large of portfolio raw materials
and yarn counts.
NAUTIC
Sioen Weaving is one of the
largest producers of high-tech
sailcloth in Europe, producing
fabrics with excellent tensile and
tear strengths as well as ultraviolet
resistant properties. The unique
combination with the Sioen Fibres
High Tenacity Polyester mill leads
to superior quality and logistic
performances.
PROTECTIVE AND MILITARY
Sioen Weaving supplies specific
fabrics for protective applications
making use of unique raw material
sourcing as well as production
techniques and testing facilities.
INDUSTRIAL FABRICS
Sioen Weaving produces > 60 million
square metres of all kind of
technical fabrics such as tarpaulins
and truck fabrics, pool fabrics,
sign fabrics, textile architecture
applications.
65
NON-WOVEN
Sioen specializes in producing needlefelt and derived products such as filter cloths and complete ready-to-use filter systems.
These filters are used in the food industry (water and air treatment in sugar refineries, breweries, etc.), heavy industry and
metallurgy, mining, petrol stations, paper processing, cement companies, the chemicals industry, municipal water purification
and after-burning plants. We recently started producing acoustic and thermal insulation panels.
66
Coating
Coating is covering a substrate (nylon, polypropylene, polyester, polyamide, cotton, wool, woven or non-woven fabrics
or sheets), with a product (PVC, PU, silicone or other), to alter and enhance its physical properties and appearance.
The end result is a technical textile with properties such as chemical resistance, anti-stain, vapour and gas resistance,
electrical conductivity, water and abrasion resistance, anti-static, printability and fire behavior. Sioen Industries applies
five main coating processes, on eight coating lines (5 in Belgium, 2 in France and 1in Portugal).
Direct coating
The PVC coating paste is directly applied to the fabric in
four layers. Applications: curtains, tilts and tarpaulins for
trucks, railway wagons and containers and other uses,
sports mats, swimming pool covers, textile architecture,
publicity banners,…
Transfer coating
The coating paste (PU, silicone, etc.) is applied to the fabric
via a paper support. Applications: protective clothing,
outdoor sports clothing, shoe protectors, mattress
protectors, airbags,…
5 coating
techniques
Online coating
Here the open weave fabric passes directly from the loom
into a coating bath. Applications: geogrids, swimming pool
covers, reinforcement nets, windbreak nets, filters,…
Melt coating
Through melt coating we produce a film out of different
polymers that is than laminated onto a carrier. This carrier
can be a textile, a felt, knitted fabric, another film or
paper. Applications include technical textiles for sewer
renovation.
Calendaring (Rolling)
We make TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) and PVC films that
are embossed to give the required aspect (can be motif/
textured). Applications: car dashboards, door panels, sun
visors, wall coverings, pond liners,…
67
Finishing
The Coating Division also focuses on finished products, processing coated coated fabrics, PVC membranes and filters
for industrial applications.
Kadors
Sioen processes in-house
coated technical fabric
into kadors (flexible tubes
enclosed in a technically
coated fabric, into which
profiles can easily be
inserted, for example for
caravan awnings).
Sio-steel
Sio-steel is a composite
consisting of a PVC
coated steel net
and double-sided PVC
coated polyester fabric,
used primarily for
intrusion-resistant truck
and train tarpaulins and
side curtains.
Cutting
Cutting of technical
textiles for the
automotive industry
(airbags, door panels, sun
visors, etc.).
Tents, covering
systems, ROLLDOWN SHUTTER
DOORS, PARTITION
WALLS, SILOS os
A small percentage of
our production of
technical textiles is
processed into finished
68
and semi-finished
products for high-tech
applications for the army,
the railway and airline
industries, and the
construction sector.
Carapax
Carapax is an alternative
to traditional roof
curtains, giving additional
resistance to the trailer
superstructure and
meeting the
requirements of EN
12642XL. Carapax is a
combination of aramid
and technical coated
textile.
Pond and dam
liners
Cutting, splicing and
packaging of sheeting for
recreational ponds and
industrial reservoirs,
water basins and
cultivating beds, for
customers worldwide.
Camouflage
fabric
Sioen specializes in the
design, production and
sales of camouflage
fabric and multispectral
camouflage netting.
Worldwide, there are
only a few companies
active in this high-tech
market that calls for
extensive technical
knowledge and research
and development.
69
Product market and Competitive position
More than half of the total production of the coating division is sold as semi-finished products to external customers
(distributors and manufacturers) for use in the areas given below. The remaining part is used internally as base material
in one of the other divisions of the group.
60% of the market is shared among one major German coater and various smaller and increasingly specialized (by
product or by region) competitors in Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Scandinavia, Spain and elsewhere, certain of whom
go opportunistically in and out of markets from one year to the next. Sioen accounts for over 40% of all European
coating capacity.
The dramatic fall in sales in 2009 in traditional markets such as transportation, automotive and sign has enabled us to
focus more and more intensively on new, developing markets such as sports, textile architecture and bio-energy. This
had an immediate impact on our turnover in 2010.
Transportation - Tarpaulins and side
curtains
The market for PVC coated tarpaulins and side curtains for
trucks and railway wagons are the most important segments
(accounting for around 35% of external turnover of direct
coating. The remaining 65% is divided amongst the other
markets).This market, for both new and replacement tarpaulins
and side curtains, is mainly located in Western Europe, where
the large trailer builders are situated. The use of coated fabrics
has not yet become customary in the American market, where
trailers are usually hard-bodied. Sioen and one other German
competitor dominate this market. In 2009, there was a general
decline in the transportation market. 2010 saw the beginning
of a revival.
Geotextiles and roofing
Technical open structure textiles are used as reinforcement
netting for roads, roofs and all types of plates. With
approximately 60% of the market Sioen is the market leader
in this segment. Geotextiles (around 20 Mm² world wide) is a
steadily expanding market.
Transportation - AUTOMOBILE
TPO and PVC films and technical textiles for car interiors
(dashboards, door panels, sun visors, gear lever covers, seat
backs, trunk covers etc.) and airbags. The new calendering
facility enables Sioen to be more flexible and to expand its
geographical market. However, since mid 2008, this automotive
market has been under enormous pressure and still is.
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Flexible, breathable technical textiles
These are mainly used for protective clothing and mattress
covers.With its modern production system, large runs, R&D and
know-how and the advantages of vertical integration, Sioen
can compete in this competition-sensitive market (Asia).
Swimming pool covers and liners
Sioen is by far the largest global supplier of technical textiles
for this segment. The greater proportion of the turnover
comes from France, where several swimming pool cover and
liner producers are located.
Sign
Sign is the collective name for printable technical textiles that
are used for publicity banners. Although competition of low
cost, lower quality laminates from Asia is high, Sioen has a
solid brand name with high quality banner material. We sell a
substantial portion of our production in this segment in Asia.
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Textile architecture
Textile architecture covers technical textiles for tents and
structures. We coat the back and front side in one run,
immediately followed by a special lacquering treatment,
providing a better overall tension of the membrane. Textile
architecture (20 Mm²) is one of the fastest-growing markets for
coated textiles worldwide. Entry barriers are the high technical
characteristics of the product and the stringent guarantee
requirements. (5 years and more) One competitor operates
exclusively in this market and has a significant market share.
Sioen has again expanded in this market in 2010 and will
further do so in the following years.
Sports
We have developed and marketed a brand new range of
phthalate free membranes for sports mats and children
playgrounds. Phthalates can be harmful when swallowed,
absorbed or inhaled. The Sioen phthalate free range is
childproof and environmentally friendly.
Bio-energy/ Agriculture
Sioen has developed a high tech range of membranes for biogas
containers and manure holders. We produce membranes for
covers, liners and bags, all according to very technical specs
and requirements. Silos can contain all kinds of waste such as
manure, abattoir, organic and vegetable waste and grease.
Niche markets
Apart from these major markets, Sioen also produces technical
textiles, films and sheets for rolling doors, bouncing castles,
boat covers, machine protection, oil booms, ventilation tubes,
sewer liners, bird nets, wall coverings, bags, pond liners. Each
product has its typical high technical requirements. Depending
on the type of product, Sioen either dominates the market or
is a smaller player. The volumes of these specific niche markets
are small compared to the other main segments. The complex
technical nature and thus the high added value of these
products allow bigger margins. We will continue to focus on
these kinds of products.
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Geographical markets
About 70% of the Coating Division’s turnover comes from the traditional Western European countries, led
by France, Germany, Italy, the Benelux and Great Britain. Eastern Europe and Asia are increasingly important
markets.
The geographical distribution reflects the location of final producers. Several large trailer manufacturers are
based in Germany and the UK, Germany has a rich tradition of using geotextiles, France has a large number
of swimming pool cover and mattress cover makers. The largest digital printing companies are based in
Western Europe. Pennel Automotive has a long history of contacts with French customers.
Technical textiles for digital printing, truck curtains, tents and tarpaulins are also finding their way to Eastern
European customers.
Sales organisation
In addition to the permanent sales staff operating out of the Ardooie (B), Mouscron (B), Flixecourt (F) and
Portuguese plants, and a number of local agents, the Coating Division has its own sales offices in Germany,
France and China.
geographical spread 2010
geographical spread 2009
23%
17%
4%
18%
18%
4%
7%
8%
6%
14%
7%
14%
5%
7%
14%
Germany
France
Belgium
Eastern Europe
Netherlands
8%
Great Britain
Italy
Scandinavia
Other
10%
16%
Germany
France
Belgium
Eastern Europe
Netherlands
Great Britain
Italy
Scandinavia
Other
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APPAREL D VISION
Sioen’s Apparel Division is an innovative producer with
a broad range of high end technical protective clothing.
These garments comply with the most stringent
European norms and regulations for, amongst others,
rainwear, high visibility, flame retardant, anti-static and
arc resistant clothing and chemical protection,...
Sioen is active in many different markets where people
work daily in many different circumstances and where
safety, comfort and security are major issues. Examples
are: fire fighters clothing, chainsaw protection, flotation
suits, bullet proof vests, clothes for operating theatres.
Quality and flexibility go together with profitability
and added value. Constant innovation has made us the
European market leader.
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Professional
Market
SIOEN
>> Bodywear.
>> Protection against rain, wind and cold.
>> High-visibility garments.
>> Anti-bacterial and
UV-protection.
>> Multiple norms protective garments.
>> Extreme cold protection.
>> Food & Agricultural.
Specific Markets
VIDAL / SIO-FIRE
>> Firefighter intervention suits.
Leisure Markets
PRIVATE LABELS
>> Preferred supplier for hightech apparel for many high
street brands in skiwear,
outdoor and leisurewear.
SIP® Protection
>> Chainsaw protection.
SAT
>> Ballistic protection against
bullets, knives, spikes and
fragments.
BALENO
>> Leisure clothing for fishing,
hunting and outdoor.
MULLION
>> Inflatable lifejackets and
floatation suits.
>> Corporate imagewear.
SIO-MED
>> Drapes and gowns for medical
use.
MILITARY
>> Complete garment solutions
for military use.
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Main product markets (Professional)
bodywear
T-shirts and long underwear in different fabrics. Because of its modern style,
cut and fit this body wear can easily and comfortably be worn underneath
smart clothing.
cold & wind
Fleeces, softshells and bodywarmers offer warmth and comfort in cold
weather. The clothing is compatible with our raingear thanks to the
Interchangeable Lining System (I.L.S.).
rain
Our rain wear: jackets, trousers, suits and coveralls will keep you dry and
comfortable even in the wettest conditions.
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rain & cold
This clothing is made to shield workers from cold and rain.
Typical winter products.
high-visibility
Hi-vis clothing has highly reflective properties or a colour that is
easily discernible from any background. By wearing hi-vis
clothing a person simply attracts attention to his being there.
Improved visibility greatly reduces accident rates. To be used
in environments with poor lighting conditions, severe weather
conditions or in other locations with low visibility.
multi-norm
Multi-norm products offer protection in especially hazardous
environments, such as fires and explosive atmospheres (anti-static
garments), and chemicals.
cold storage/food
Especially developed clothing for cold storage warehouses and
for use in the food industry.
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Specific markets
Siofire-Vidal develops protective clothing for fire fighters. SIP protection guarantees safety and chainsaw protection in
forestry. Sioen Armour technology specializes in bullet- and stab-proof solutions for police and defence forces and security
companies. Mullion produces flotation suits, life jackets and survival suits. Baleno is a recognised name for outdoor,
hunter and fishermen’s clothing. Siomed produces textiles for the medical sector and produces uniforms and protective
clothing for all kinds of military applications.
Sio-Fire/Vidal
We offer the widest range of life protecting solutions, combining
the highest protection level with the best comfort. Our R&D
department is constantly looking for new solutions, in close
dialogue with the end users. Our strong focus on quality through
all stages of the product translates into long garment life and
maximum protection in extreme circumstances.
SAT
Through a carefully developed range of bullet and stab resistant
body armour, SAT has developed a solid position in different
European countries. Both tender and distribution business are
covered with this high quality product range. The combination of
protection and comfort is highly appreciated by our customers.
Mullion
Our production facilities in different countries allow us to produce
within very short lead times and even make small production runs
based on specific customer needs. Also for the leisure market
we have very attractive solutions both for flotation suits and life
jackets.
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Sio-Med
Our constant developments and fabric improvements are the
basis of our growing turnover in gowns and drapes for the
operating theatre. With our reprocessing support we offer a
complete solution from the design stage up to the reprocessing
in the laundries. This approach is highly appreciated by our
customers.
FORESTRY
We have enlarged our product portfolio to cover the needs of
all markets. Our products are considered as the safest available
solutions, offering also very good value for money. More and more
customers are opting for SIP as being innovative, comfortable,
safe and reliable. We are the market leader in this segment.
Leisure markets
Baleno
Baleno is the Sioen brand for modern, comfortable yet functional
sports and leisure wear. This extensive range is specifically
designed for the protection of outdoor sports and leisure and
for hunters and fishermen. At the same time, Baleno clothes are
elegant and functional for daily use.
Production plants
We continue to invest to keep our factories state-of-the art and to offer our customers the competitive advantage
of the last technology. Our production plants all operate to the highest quality standards. Our ethical and ecological
business principles are approved by the most famous brands.
CHEMICALS D VISION
Sioen Chemicals produces pigment pastes, inks,
varnishes, colour powders and colour dispersions in
Belgium and in France.
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The Product
Sioen Chemicals specialises in dispersing technologies. Dispersing is our manufacturing process
that blends fine powders of functional chemicals into base plastics (before these are processed into
a finished product). These functional chemical powders will typically be pigments, opacifires, flameretardants, chemical stabilizers… which will be dispersed in PVC plasticizers, silicon elastomers, TPE’s,
polyesters, PU components (polyols), solvents, epoxy, water, a.o...
In a lot of applications Sioen Pigment pastes are alternatives for traditional masterbatches. Solid
masterbatches are produced in an energy intensive extrusion process.
Pastes have disctintive benefits:
> simple dosing methods
> good colour matching of RAL colors based on Mono pigment pastes
> cost competitive versus micro granulates.
Pigments pastes are the only solution to add fine powders into flexible or elastic plastics.
The inks Sioen is producing are also dispersations of pigments in selected resin solutions.
‘Sioen produces pigment pastes,
inks, varnishes, colour powders
and colour dispersions’
Main product markets
PIGMENT PASTES
are used for colouring
polyurethane and PVC
coatings, epoxies, acrylic
resins and silicones.
These find their way into
a huge range of end
products, including vinyl
DECORATIVE INKS
These are the inks used in
niche markets like vinyl
flooring, direct print on
extrusion profiles, paper
and vinyl wall paper
coverings, decorative
paper for melamine
flooring, wall coverings,
silicone kits used in
construction and
interior decoration,
kitchen sponges,
mattress and furniture
liners, shoe soles,
bathtubs, sanitary
facilities and luxury
yachts. Sioen Chemicals
also produces specific
flame retardant pastes.
It is one of the only
manufacturers in the
world of high tech pastes
that render textile
invisible to military
infrared cameras.
impregnation eg used in
laminated flooring.
These inks can either be
water or solvent based,
or are developed for UV
curing.
Digital Inks
These are inks for digital
print on flexible media
such as paper, film,
coated fabrics used in
advertising banner
materials or tarpaulin for
trailers.
Varnishes
Sioen Chemicals offers
a wide range of water
and solvent borne
and UV-curable varnishes
and lacquers.
Applications include
liquid varnishes for
printing inks, top coat
varnishes protecting
decorative surfaces, and
specific technical
products such as
inhibitor varnish for
special patterns in
decorative applications.
Colour powders
and colour
dispersions
These are plastic resins
compounded with
pigments, chemical and
UV stabilizers, various
fillers,…
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These can be used in
extrusion processes,
fluidized bed coatings.
Our production
Sioen Chemicals uses blenders and high speed dissolvers as standard dispersing equipment. Our
3-roll mills, and high energy bead mills increase the finesse and homogeneousness of the particle size
(down to nano meter size’s). This will take out the maximum functional characteristic of the dispersed
powders.
Sioen Chemicals is fully equipped with state of the art infrastructure, complying with the most stringent
health and safety regulations, enabling it to handle the wide range of potentially hazardous chemicals.
Our R&D centers are equipped with lab versions of our industrial installations, allowing rapid scaling up
from lab to industrial manufacturing.
Our clients
Sioen chemicals supplies most of its products to industrial customers. Richard Colorant, its French
subsidiary, produces colour paste’s and colour powders for DIY customers and professional decorators.
These are distributed through large DIY chains or specialized paint distributors. These concentrated
colour paste’s and powders are supplied in bottles and dispensers typically 30 to 250 ml. The Richard
Colorant range is uniquely compatible with both water and various solvent based paints.
‘The chemicals division is a niche specialist,
focusing on highly technical and
special custom made products’
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Competitive position
Sioen Chemical’s organisation and the fact of having the
Sioen group as its largest customer give a scale advantage
over the relatively fragmented competition. In addition, the
personalized service and close partnerships with customers
play an important role in the success of this division.
Cost advantage
Vertical integration of production processes yields products
that are used as raw materials in coating and varnishing. This
allows effective management of costs and ensures regular
supply, constant quality monitoring and volume.
Service and tailor made products
More than any other pigment pastes, varnish or ink producer,
we are able to provide solid quality products. Swift delivery
of standard products and quick development of special tailor
made products.
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Geographical markets
15% of all Sioen Chemicals products are used within the Sioen group. The balance
is sold to a wide variety of customers, mainly in Western Europe.
Sales organisation
from the Bornem (Belgium) headquarters and the other subsidiaries.
R&D driven
The Sioen Chemicals division boasts a well-working R&D centre with labs in
all production plants and dedicated professionals each specialising in their
main market. They focus on product development and innovation, but also
on process improvement and product optimisation. Thanks to their efforts we
have developed an extensive range of products suitable for use in a multitude
of applications.
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